WATCH | Turning car windows into video displays

June 7, 2017 - 3:53 PM
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Reuters videograb

Liquid crystal glass windows could turn cars into mobile billboards that display targeted and localised information, according to an Israeli start-up. Reuters’ Amy Pollock reports.

Car windows could become the next source of information – and advertising – on the streets. An Israeli start-up has developed smart glass technology that can provide targeted, localized information.

“This is actually the first time that a car window is no longer just a car window, it’s also a full blown display that can be used for smart messaging,” Eyal Peso, chief executive and co-founder, saying.

Tech company Gauzy bonded sheets of liquid crystal glass to car windows. They are clear when the engine is running and an electric current is passed through them… But they turn opaque once the car is switched off, transforming it into a video display unit The high definition video and images are projected onto the opaque screens and come with a controller connected to the internet.

“That, for instance, can let passers-by know of nearby attractions, give you a lot of information, it’s location based of course, the car knows where it’s at so it can promote information that is related and relevant to the location the car is at,” Peso, saying.

Reassuringly, the glass will only be installed in rear and side windows and can only be activated once the car engine has stopped.

Gauzy is working with German carmaker Daimler on its smart glass screens. It hopes to make cars more than just a way to get from A to B.